Visit from Sir Nicholas

Everyone knows that an Effington always getsher way ... but this time it's not going to be easy!

Lady Elizabeth Effington simply could not suitably feel the joy of the Christmas season. Ten years had passed since she had boldly declared her love for Sir Nicholas Collingsworth. He rebuffed her and set out to seek his fortunes, while Elizabeth was left a woman scorned. Now, she discovers in horror that the inheritance she's managed beautifully was never hers to control. No, power over her finances lay in the hands of the last man she ever wants to see again: Nicholas!

But running Elizabeth's life isn't part of Nick's plans. He's intrigued when he discovers that the frivolous and flighty girl he once knew has turned into a beautiful and capable woman. Nick vows to woo — and win — her, and while she seems unmoved by his fervent seduction, he swears he will not rest until she accepts that most precious gift of all — the gift of love.

Everyone knows that an Effington always getsher way ... but this time it's not going to be easy!

Lady Elizabeth Effington simply could not suitably feel the joy of the Christmas season. Ten years had passed since she had boldly declared her love for Sir Nicholas Collingsworth. He rebuffed her and set out to seek his fortunes, while Elizabeth was left a woman scorned. Now, she discovers in horror that the inheritance she's managed beautifully was never hers to control. No, power over her finances lay in the hands of the last man she ever wants to see again: Nicholas!

But running Elizabeth's life isn't part of Nick's plans. He's intrigued when he discovers that the frivolous and flighty girl he once knew has turned into a beautiful and capable woman. Nick vows to woo — and win — her, and while she seems unmoved by his fervent seduction, he swears he will not rest until she accepts that most precious gift of all — the gift of love.

Publishers Weekly

While Alexander's many fans will snatch up her latest romance featuring the irrepressible Effington family (The Pursuit of Marriage, etc.), newcomers may wonder what all the fuss is about. In this lusterless Victorian-era novel, Nicholas Collingsworth casts away the burgeoning affection of Elizabeth Effington so that she can marry his best friend, then departs to make his fortune abroad. When Nicholas returns to London 10 years later, Elizabeth is a lovely young widow, and he pledges to correct his mistake by winning her heart and hand. With few genuine obstacles to contend with besides Elizabeth's pride and stubbornness, Nicholas's campaign lacks tension. A possible threat to their happiness springs out of nowhere four-fifths of the way through, providing momentary excitement, but it fizzles out before its dramatic potential is explored. Elizabeth's impulsiveness adds some sparks, but when she throws a vase for the third time in a fit of bad temper-this time a priceless Ming aimed directly at Nicholas's head and flung "with all her strength"-readers may wonder if Nicholas should wait 10 more years for the lady to grow up. One shining beacon is Alexander's dialogue, which screenwriters might envy for its rat-a-tat zing. But those seeking surprises should pass up this bland holiday offering. Agent, Meg Ruley. (Dec.) Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.

Victoria Alexander was an award-winning television reporter until she discovered fiction was much more fun than real life. She turned to writing full time and has never looked back. Victoria grew up traveling the country as an Air Force brat and is now settled in Omaha, Nebraska, with her husband, two teenaged children, and a bearded collie named Sam. She firmly believes housework is a four-letter word, there are no calories in anything eaten standing up, procrastination is an art form, and it's never too soon to panic.